Veterinary Cancer Registries. Epidemiology of Cancer on The Canine Population of The Canary Archipelago

Abstract

Cancer is one of the most important public health concerns of our time, both in the human and pet companion animal populations, and perhaps no other diagnosis is more concerning when it comes to our own health or that of our loved ones and pets. Under our care, our dogs and cats spend a lifetime with us, providing loyal companionship and enriching our lives in so many ways that their welfare and health becomes an important part of our daily concerns. For this reason, the study of the epidemiological risk and protective factors associated with the different types of cancer has become an important branch of veterinary science with an important role to play in preventing cancer and ensuring the optimal health status of various pet populations. Furthermore, from a 'One Health' approach, cancer prevention in our dogs and cats could potentially be useful for humans, as both owners and pets share a common environment. We both breathe the same air, drink the same water and are exposed to the same food sources and environmental pollutants, hence the importance of pets as sentinels and models of human health. From this perspective, there is a clear need to monitor the health status of our pet populations and this is where the various animal health surveillance systems in general and veterinary cancer registries in particular come into play.